Lincolnshire based arborist Erik Eglinton first had the idea for his arboriculture business back in 2016. Feeling unhappy with his present working conditions and armed with an aboriculture diploma and 2 years experience under his belt, Erik contacted NBV looking for help to begin his business. We spoke to Erik recently who told us more about his start-up journey.
Can you tell us a little bit about your business, Arborez Ltd?
My business is based in Sudbrooke, Lincoln, and I specialise in arboriculture which involves all aspects of tree work from planting to woodland clearances. We also undertake some landscaping work too. All our work is carried out to a high standard of professionalism with a high onus on a tidy finish, we want the customer to barely notice we’ve been!
What attracted you to seek out help from NBV?
I think I first found out about NBV online. I was very interested in taking advantage of the free business support as the whole venture was new to me. At NBV I have attended a Social Media seminar and I will soon be attending one about being a Limited company and the laws surrounding it. My business adviser, Mike Gibbs has also helped me massively.
How has mentoring support helped you?
I started the business on my own so it gives me a lot of confidence to know that there is somebody there for advice. It’s always good to discuss thoughts and ideas and the potential pitfalls of business. It’s helped me too that Mike has a wider understanding of what is out there in the business world as I am often focussed in on my industry.
You were successful in accessing financial support through NBV’s Grant, how has this helped the business?
Yes. I was able to access a grant through NBV for equipment for the business. The grant enabled us to get a stump grinder which has proved greatly beneficial! It’s allowed us to take on more work and has allowed us to avoid sub-contracting that work out to other businesses.
What does the future hold for Arborez?
The business keeps on growing, we are now a Ltd company and we keep employing more people and investing in our employees’ development. Since starting the company I am more confident and see life differently with fewer boundaries. I’d like to continue building the business and work with other organisations to encourage youth development into arboriculture as well as taking on apprentices. I‘d also like to acquire commercial and utility contracts, remain in profit and get my level 5 diploma in Arboriculture.
What have been the highs and lows of running a business?
The highs are the buzz you get from completing successful work, and realising how far I can push myself. Achieving goals such as buying pieces of kit, and undertaking new, unchartered jobs and carrying them out successfully have all been memorable moments. The low is that, as much as I love the job, the one commodity that cannot be replaced is time and there seems to be less and less of it!
Any tips or advice for others?
When you think you can’t do any more, do a bit more… but know when to cut your losses. When something goes badly, absorb it, learn from it and move on.